ML Interest Tag: grocer

Aldi Names Cheeses After 80s Songs & We Are Having a Total Eclipse of the Havarti

by Karly Wood

If there was ever a time to whip out your crimping iron and snap on that banana clip, it’s now, because the new 80’s cheeses from Aldi are here and they sound totally tubular. The grocer’s Happy Farms brand is rolling out a limited edition line of six cheeses that are all named after famous 80’s songs––and excuse us while we strap on our legwarmers in preparation.

The special lineup is available starting Feb. 6 and each flavor is only $3.49! At that price, you can afford to get one of each.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BthCsLWg1x3/

In case you’re not up on your 80’s hits, we’ll break down what you can expect to find with these special cheeses:

  • Goat Cheese: Wake Me Up Before You Goat Goat (1984’s Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go by Wham!)
  • Cheddar: Sweet Cheddar of Mine (1987’s Sweet Child O’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses)
  • Fontina: Girls Just Wanna Have Fontina (1983’s Girls Just Wanna Have Fun by Cyndi Lauper)
  • Gouda: Pour Some Gouda on Me (1987’s Pour Some Sugar On Me by Def Leppard) and
  • Havarti: Total Eclipse of the Havarti (1983’s Total Eclipse of the Heart by Bonnie Tyler).
  • Goat Milk Cheddar Cheese: Bille Goat is My Lover (1983’s Billie Jean by Michael Jackson)

The limited line is in stores now, and just in time for the Grammy’s. Don’t forget to snag your picks for your viewing party!

 

––Karly Wood

 

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Those Mickey Ice Cream Bars You Can Only Get at the Parks Are Coming to Stores

by Erica Loop

It’s the Year of the Mouse—Mickey Mouse, that is. The Disney icon turns 90 this year and among the many celebratory events, activities and products, you will soon find Mickey ice cream bars in your local grocer’s freezer section.

In honor of the very special birthday boy, you won’t have to trek all the way to a Disney Park to get a Mickey-shaped tasty treat. Nestle is bringing its chocolate-covered Mickey Ice Cream bars to retailers across the country very soon.

So when and where can you get these special frozen treats? As of now, Nestle hasn’t confirmed a release date. They also haven’t provided Disney fans with a list of stores or chains that will carry the very special 90th birthday treat. It is expected that most major grocery retailers that carry Nestle products will stock the once park-only novelty.

Given that 2019 is Mickey’s official birthday year, it’s kind of a no-brainer that these 90th anniversary ice cream pops will make their grand debut at some point this year. But it’s also just as likely that you’ll only find them for a limited time. So keep a lookout in your freezer section so you don’t miss out!

—Erica Loop

Featured photo: rickpilot_2000 via Flickr

 

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We Can All Eat Romaine Lettuce Now, CDC Says

by Erica Loop

Salad-lovers rejoice: according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the answer to the question, “Is romaine lettuce safe to eat?” is finally yes. Go ahead and grab a head from your local grocer’s shelf—minus the fear of getting a major bacterial infection.

The CDC issued a country-wide recall of romaine lettuce from Oct. 7 to Dec. 4, 2018 following an E. coli outbreak that included 62 illnesses with 25 hospitalizations. On Jan. 9, 2019 the CDC issued a statement letting us all know that, “This outbreak appears to be over.”

Photo: Liz Muir via Flickr

After an investigation of the outbreak, the CDC and U.S. Food and Drug Administration identified the sources of the E. coli outbreak inside an agricultural reservoir at Adams Bros. Farming Inc. Farm in Santa Barbara, California.

Contaminated lettuce products were pulled from store shelves, thrown out of restaurants and removed by consumers from their homes. So unless you happened to freeze some fairly old lettuce (which really isn’t recommended), eating romaine is safe once more.

Even though the recall is officially over, you should always make sure to thoroughly wash and dry all fruits and vegetables before eating them to reduce your risk of contracting food-borne illnesses.

—Erica Loop

 

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Amazon Reportedly Has Plans to Open More Whole Foods Stores (& Soon)

by Erica Loop

Is it true? Are more Whole Foods grocery stores coming to a city near you? Reports surfaced earlier this week that Amazon has some big New Year’s plans to expand Whole Foods Markets in parts of Idaho, Wyoming and Utah. Amazon did not immediately respond to Red Tricycle’s request for comment.

The Wall Street Journal recently reported that a Whole Foods insider shared that employees from the store were scouting potential retail spaces in these select states. But it doesn’t seem like the rumored stores would stop there. If the expansion is actually a real thing (and without a comment from Amazon, we still don’t know), Whole Foods Markets could grab an even bigger piece of the grocery pie.

Photo: Courtesy of Whole Foods Market

Not only can shoppers browse the aisles in brick-and-mortar stores, but Amazon Prime members can also enjoy online ordering and Whole Foods grocery delivery options through Prime Now. With more stores, it’s expected that the number of Prime Now delivery areas will grow, too.

So when and where can you expect to see new Whole Foods Markets popping up? As of right now, we just can’t say. Considering the phenomenal growth that the grocer has experienced following Amazon’s acquisition of Whole Foods in mid-2017, it looks like the possibilities are almost endless and it’s only a matter of of time before even more Whole Foods open their doors in the coming years.

—Erica Loop

 

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Is Romaine Lettuce Safe to Eat Yet? Yes—But with a Big Catch

by Erica Loop

After last week’s major recall on romaine lettuce, plenty of us have been wondering, “Is romaine lettuce safe to eat?” As it turns out, yes—but only under very limited circumstances, as noted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration.

Following an E. coli outbreak that was linked to contaminated romaine, the CDC and FDA cautioned everyone to stay away from the popular leafy green. So if the lettuce shelves at your local grocer look bare, that’s why. You may have also noticed that any restaurant—from the finest foodie establishments to fast food chains—carrying salads, sandwiches or other romaine-containing products put a hold on selling those lettuce-centric items.

Photo: Keiko Zoll

Following the Nov. 20 update, 11 more cases of romaine-related E. coli were reported. This includes 43 cases across 12 state. Without a specific source, the CDC and FDA had n choice but to tell everyone to avoid all romaine. But now their investigation has narrowed down the contamination to lettuce from northern and central California.

Even though these agencies now have a general idea as to where the romaine originated, they are yet to find a precise grower or distributor. According to the CDC’s website, “If you do not know where the romaine is from, do not eat it.”

Some romaine is currently labeled with the harvest growing region, but this doesn’t apply to all romaine or products containing romaine. If you can’t find a label, there is no label or the label indicates that the lettuce is from the Central Coastal growing region of California, do NOT eat it.

The CDC and FDA’s current announcement that some lettuce is safe to eat does not apply to all romaine. Caution is absolutely necessary until the investigation pinpoints the exact source of the E. coli contamination.

—Erica Loop

 

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Blackberry Strawberry Pudding

by Erin Lem

One glance at the farmers’ market or your local grocer this time of year and you’ll notice the produce section is overflowing with berries. Put those seasonal berries to good use with this pudding recipe perfect for summer. Reprinted from Sweetly Raw Desserts by Heather Pace, this recipe will open up your eyes to raw food and all of its delicious possibilities.

Yield 2 servings

Ingredients:
¾ cup (109 g) blackberries
¾ cup (127 g) diced strawberries
¾ cup (approximately 127 g) packed young coconut pulp
1 tablespoon + 2 teaspoons (33 g) agave or coconut nectar
½ teaspoon lemon juice
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons (10 ml) melted coconut oil

Method:
1. Blend all ingredients but the coconut oil in a blender until smooth. Add the oil and blend again to incorporate. Chill the pudding in the fridge for at least 4 hours before serving.

Have you participated in the raw food movement? What other raw dishes have you made for your kids?

SWEETLY RAW DESSERTS by Heather Pace will show readers everything they need to know about making the most delicious and nutritious raw food desserts. Techniques such as soaking nuts, using a mandoline, juicing fruits, and making nut milk are included to help you become as familiar as possible with the ingredients and equipment you will be using. This recipe is reprinted with permission from Quarry Books (2015). To buy the book click here.

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How to Celebrate & Photograph National Teddy Bear Day

by Erin Lem

Flat Stanley and the Traveling Gnome have some big time competition in the name of a teddy bear named Beary. Our Editors recently played hooky from work to hangout with Beary and chronicle his adventures around Sausalito for National Teddy Bear Day. In honor of this day, you too can get out and explore your ‘hood with your own teddy bear (a lovey works just fine, too). Scroll down to get inspired by Beary’s tour de Sausalito’s coolest spots, and then take photos of your own teddy bear’s adventures. Don’t forget to tag #RedTricycle to share your National Teddy Bear Day celebration.

Beary knew he’d have a big day of adventures ahead of him (it is his day after all) so he fueled up with a bowl of cereal and almond milk.

Once he got pumped to celebrate National Teddy Bear Day, he got on his red tricycle to get from one place to another. Pssst-don’t have a tricycle to photograph your teddy with? A scooter, bike or skateboard works just fine!

First stop? The playground (obviously). Beary hopped on the only available swing at the park.  After patiently waiting his turn, Beary got to zoom down the tube slide. It was one of the most thrilling rides of his life. 

Conveniently located right next to the playground, the Sausalito library has a great kids’ book section. Beary beelined it here and settled in amongst his favorite reads.

He snuggled up with one of his favorite books: Madeline. Though to be honest, The Berenstain Bears series was his first choice–they were all checked out.

After finishing up his book, Beary decided to park it in the garden to get back to his woodsy roots. Hint: for your own teddy bear photo shoot try to find a garden with flowers! 

Just moments later, Beary met a gentle 13-week-old puppy who took a liking to him.  

After the pup fell asleep, Beary headed to his local grocer for some eats. 

He fit just fine in the grocer’s carts. 

The last stop on the tour was a picturesque shot near the water. If you don’t live near water we suggest finding a scenic outlook–it could even be at your local park or atop a nearby hill!

National Teddy Bear Day really took it out of Beary so he hit the sack early. 

What did you think of Beary’s day? Share your own teddy bear or lovey’s adventures with us by emailing a photo of your own beary to greatideas@tinybeans.go-vip.net or tag us on Facebook and Instagram with #RedTricycle, and we’ll repost our favorites!

photos by Christal Yuen; copy by Erin Lem

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Holiday Foods Baby Can Enjoy (& You Can Try!)

by Gabby Cullen

Dreaming about the baked ham, plum pudding and latkes you might find on the table this year? Pull up a (high) chair for baby and introduce her to the classic dishes you love. From fancy fruit purees to veggie pancakes to sweet potato bites, these recipes are perfect for your newest foodie. Flip through our album for all the festive options.

Persimmon Puree

Get fruit fancy with a persimmon puree. 'Tis the season for this orange orb -- you can find some at your local grocer or farmer’s market. Be sure to taste test first; these guys can be bitter if not fully ripened. Find out how to whip up a batch over at Weelicious.

What holiday flavors will your baby taste this season? Share a favorite recipe in the comments!

— Gabby Cullen

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4 Inspiring Picnic Spots (And Where to Get Your Grub)

by Selena Kohng

Finger food. A cozy blanket. Space for kids to run around. No dishes to wash. Clearly, picnics were invented by a parent. In Chicago, we take advantage of the sunshine when we can, so pack up the family and move mealtime outdoors. If you want to skip sandwich-making duty, grab your grub on the way. Here are suggestions on local grocers and nearby parks that, paired together, add up to easy-breezy urban picnicking.

Lincoln Square
The grocer: Gene’s Sausage Shop & Delicatessen
The park: Welles Park

Gene’s is a neighborhood gem with German roots, and it attracts loyal patrons from all over the city. It’s easy to see why: The one-stop shop offers exotic meats (like boar sausage), fresh produce, wine and spirits, and hard-to-find European sweet treats at unpretentious prices. Pack your picnic basket with homemade potato or pasta salad for under $5 a pound and some deli meats and pretzel rolls; or, go for a pre-made pretzel bread sandwich for $4.99. If your stomach is really rumbling, branch out with authentic staples like schnitzel, potato pancakes and pierogi. Dessert is a must: Chocolate-covered Bahlsen biscuits will elate the kiddies and whole cherry pies are ample enough for everyone to share. Be a good Chicagoan and return later to grab brats to grill for dinner.

For your picnic, walk a few blocks south on Lincoln Avenue to Welles Park, where green space abounds. Stake out your spot close to the north end where you’ll find a charming gazebo and a new toddler-friendly playground — you know, the kind with cushy rubber mats and those swanky bucket swings. After your meal, let your little monkeys loose on the jungle gym. The water play area comes in handy for hosing off sticky hands and faces.

Tip: Venture to the south end of the 15-acre park at Montrose Avenue to find more picnic-perfect space. There’s an older playground there, complete with wood chips and all.

Gene’s Sausage Shop & Delicatessen
4750 N. Lincoln Ave.
773-728-7243
Online: www.genessausageshop.com

Welles Park
2333 W. Sunnyside Ave.
312-742-7511
Online: www.chicagoparkdistrict.com

West Loop
The grocer: J.P. Graziano Grocery
The park: Mary Bartelme Park

Randolph Row may be home to culinary heavyweights like Avec and Girl and the Goat, but just a few blocks west sits J.P. Graziano Grocery, a 75-year-old family-run business that’s a Chicago foodie’s best-kept secret. The hefty Italian sandwiches have ingredients like artisan-cured salame and truffle-mustard balsamic vinaigrette; and simple but tasty classics like turkey or ham please picky eaters. The line to pay gets long, mainly due to the motherly cashier chatting with customers. While you wait, grab a carton of imported Aliseo blood orange juice from the fridge to wash down the sammies. Browse the pre-packed olive salads, Miele Thun honey flavors, homemade giardiniera, and barrels of dried herbs and beans to stock your pantry. Soak up the humble family atmosphere and count how many times you hear an affectionate, “How you doin’?”

Head four blocks south on Peoria Street to Mary Bartelme Park for your picnic, but be forewarned: Once your kids see the industrial-cool playground they’ll be deaf to your pleas to “Stop running” or “Eat first.” Thankfully, a few tables and chairs welcome you right next to the play structure so you can refuel and keep watch. This isn’t your red-checkered picnic blanket scene, but what the park lacks in grassy knolls it makes up in edgy urban details, like sculptural metal archways that spray a cooling mist on warm days. Even the furriest of your family members can stretch his legs in the attached dog park.

Tip: If you’re driving, breeze past the metered streets and park on Adams Street between Peoria and Morgan streets; it’s free.

J.P Graziano Grocery
901 W. Randolph St.
312-666-4587
Online: www.jpgraziano.com

Mary Bartelme Park
115 S. Sangamon St.
312-746-5494
Online: www.chicagoparkdistrict.com

Gold Coast
The grocer: The Goddess and Grocer
The park: Washington Square Park

After a morning of shopping downtown, you and your squirmy sidekick deserve a break. Take a two-minute walk from Water Tower Place to The Goddess and Grocer and plan a feast with prepped food like crab cakes, butternut squash ravioli and carrot ginger soup. Or put in an order for the signature Goddess Garden Wrap, brie and apple panini, or chorizo torta. Sound too fancy-pants? The kids’ menu has failsafe favorites like PB&J and grilled cheese. If you lose sight of your tot while you’re ordering, don’t be alarmed; he’s glued to the baked goods case, eyeing the dreamy rainbow cake.

Afterward, walk two blocks west on Delaware Place to picturesque Washington Square Park. Lay out your spread close to the fountain in front of Newberry Library for Instagram-worthy shots. It’s a great people-watching spot loaded with history as Chicago’s oldest small park as well as the site of famous soapbox debates.

Tip: Time your visit to take advantage of events at Newberry: It hosts free tours Thursday afternoons and Saturday mornings, and an annual used book fair the last weekend of July.

The Goddess and Grocer
25 E. Delaware Pl.
312-896-2600
Online: www.goddessandgrocer.com

Washington Square Park
901 N. Clark St.
312-742-7895
Online: www.chicagoparkdistrict.com

Hyde Park
The grocer: Hyde Park Produce
The park: Burnham Park/Promontory Point Park

Load the family bikes and soccer balls and head to Hyde Park for a fresh view of your favorite skyline. But first, stop at Hyde Park Produce and fill up on fresh produce and deli staples. While the foodstuffs here are basic, standouts include house-made guacamole and plantains. If you’re sandwiched out, hot meals like jerk chicken or barbecued ribs will satisfy.

Drive just over a mile to Burnham Park/Promontory Point Park, which was home to Chicago’s second World’s Fair in the early 1930s. Similar to other lakeshore oases around the city, this place wins thanks to its dense, lush greenery and castle-like tower monument. Enjoy hours of unplugged fun on the bike trails or exploring the rocks along the shore.

Tip: There are fire pits, so grab s’mores ingredients and matches from the store. You can also make a full day of it and bring a mini grill and stock up on meats accordingly. The fire pits were originally designed as council rings, so consider the grilling time as a teaching moment for your tribe.

Hyde Park Produce
1226 E. 53rd St.
773-324-7100
Online: www.hydeparkproduce.com

Burnham Park/Promontory Point Park
5491 S. South Shore Dr.
312-747-6620
Online: www.chicagoparkdistrict.com

What do you like to pack in your picnic basket? Let us know in the Comments section below.

— Selena Kohngx

Photos (from top to bottom): @Ron Chapple|Dreamstime.com, Gene’s Sausage Shop & Delicatessen, Chicago Park District, J.P. Graziano Grocery, Chicago Park District, The Goddess and Grocer, Chicago Park District, Hyde Park Produce, Chicago Park District

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